It was back in 2003 that BMW founded the new mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment with the launch of the X3. That means the BMW X3 has been a paragon of sporty dynamics, premium ambience and robust agility, coupled with low fuel consumption and emissions, for over 10 years now – racking up sales figures of more than one million units in the process. The second generation of the successful BMW X3 has made a compelling case for itself since its introduction in 2010, boasting the best interior and boot measurements and the greatest versatility in its class.

And now the new BMW X3 (fuel consumption combined: 8.3–4.7* l/100 km [34.0–60.1 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 193–124* g/km) is set to build inexorably on its segment leadership. A pair of new-generation diesel engines, producing more power but once again burning less fuel, serve to improve dynamic performance and reduce pollutant emissions. The exterior and interior design of the new BMW X3 reveal stylistic revisions and also add further depth to the car’s practicality with detail solutions responding to customer requirements.

Dynamic appearance and exclusive ambience

The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure with its new, modified twin circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), a more eye-catching kidney grille, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators – shining an even brighter spotlight on signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived quality and exclusivity also defines the interior of the new BMW X3. Chrome applications, a centre console with optional automatic climate control system in high-gloss black-panel look, and new cupholders with a sliding cover for the centre console underline the car’s premium appearance. New exterior colours, upholstery designs, interior trim strips and light-alloy wheels enable even more refined individualisation. The new xLine equipment package, meanwhile, allows owners to lend greater emphasis still to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. And the Smart Opener for the automatic tailgate and storage package (both optional) further enhance the already impressive functionality of the BMW X3.

The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure with its new, modified twin circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), a more eye-catching kidney grille, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators – shining an even brighter spotlight on signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived quality and exclusivity also defines the interior of the new BMW X3. Chrome applications, a centre console with optional automatic climate control system in high-gloss black-panel look, and new cupholders with a sliding cover for the centre console underline the car’s premium appearance. New exterior colours, upholstery designs, interior trim strips and light-alloy wheels enable even more refined individualisation. The new xLine equipment package, meanwhile, allows owners to lend greater emphasis still to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. And the Smart Opener for the automatic tailgate and storage package (both optional) further enhance the already impressive functionality of the BMW X3.

The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure with its new, modified twin circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), a more eye-catching kidney grille, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators – shining an even brighter spotlight on signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived quality and exclusivity also defines the interior of the new BMW X3. Chrome applications, a centre console with optional automatic climate control system in high-gloss black-panel look, and new cupholders with a sliding cover for the centre console underline the car’s premium appearance. New exterior colours, upholstery designs, interior trim strips and light-alloy wheels enable even more refined individualisation. The new xLine equipment package, meanwhile, allows owners to lend greater emphasis still to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. And the Smart Opener for the automatic tailgate and storage package (both optional) further enhance the already impressive functionality of the BMW X3.

World premiere for the new 2.0-litre diesel unit with 140 kW/190 hp

The new BMW X3 is available from launch with a choice of four diesel and three petrol engines, with outputs ranging from 110 kW/150 hp to 230 kW/313 hp. The state-of-the-art units with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology guarantee outstanding performance combined with low fuel consumption, and all meet the EU6 exhaust gas standard. At the same time, the output of the X3 xDrive20d (fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined: 5.8–5.4*/5.1–4.8*/5.4–5.0* l/100 km [48.7–52.3/55.4–58.9/52.3–56.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 141–131* g/km), for example, rises from 135 kW/184 hp to 140 kW/190 hp, while the fuel consumption of the automatic version is 7.1 per cent lower than that of its predecessor. The BMW X3 xDrive20d, which gives this new 2.0-litre turbodiesel its global premiere, therefore sets the benchmark in its class. It is an achievement matched by the new 110 kW/150 hp BMW X3 sDrive18d (fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined: 5.8–5.4*/4.7–4.3*/5.1–4.7* l/100 km [48.7–52.3/60.1–65.7/55.4–60.1 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 134–124* g/km) with classical rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox. Likewise leading the way in their segments are the BMW X3 xDrive28i (fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined: 9.3–8.7*/6.3–5.9*/7.4–7.0* l/100 km (30.4–32.4/44.8–47.8/38.2–40.3 mpg imp); CO2 emissions combined: 172–162* g/km) with 180 kW/245 hp and the BMW X3 xDrive35i (fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined: 10.7/6.9/8.3 l/100 km [26.4/40.9/34.0 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 193 g/km) with 225 kW/306 hp.

BMW EfficientDynamics: driving pleasure and low fuel consumption

The trailblazing BMW EfficientDynamics package of technology brings the Auto Start Stop function, coasting function, Brake Energy Regeneration and on-demand operation of ancillary units to the new BMW X3, resulting in the lowest fuel consumption and emissions in the segment. In addition, fourth-generation low-rolling-resistance tyres make a significant contribution to the excellent environmental performance of the new BMW X3 by reducing CO2 emissions by 7 g/km.

BMW ConnectedDrive: driver assistance and infotainment

The new BMW X3 advances the company’s commitment to the link-up of driver, vehicle and outside world, an area in which BMW is an undisputed leader. Among the outstanding new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the BMW X3 are the iDrive Controller with integrated touchpad (for text input using finger movements), Parking Assistant, the full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus, including Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and preventive pedestrian protection.

Also available under the BMW ConnectedDrive umbrella are Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI), Concierge Services and the Intelligent Emergency Call function. A range of apps enable the use of Facebook and Twitter, AUPEO! internet radio and music platforms like Napster and Deezer.

The design language of the new BMW X3 underlines the leading role it has traditionally occupied in the mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle segment. Taking its cue from its predecessor, the new BMW X3 blends exclusivity and dynamic appeal and couples it with impressive versatility. The new model is immediately identifiable as a member of the successful BMW X family and cuts an even more impressive figure on the road. Its design showcases an SAV that will carry out everyday tasks with consummate ease and do so while delivering unbeatable driving pleasure.

Striking presence on the road

Aside from its length, which has grown by a single centimetre, the new BMW X3 has the same compact, usable dimensions of its successful predecessor. However, the new BMW X3 comes with a host of exclusive details that accentuate its latest step up in class. At the front end, for example, the newly designed twin circular headlights stand out immediately. They can also be ordered in full-LED specification as an option and, like the optional LED front fog lamps, lend even greater expression to the premium profile of the BMW X3. The characteristic, more strikingly presented BMW kidney grille has an even sharper visual impact with its new surround, and powerful, newly designed front and rear bumpers highlight the poised and assured appearance of the new BMW X3. The LED side direction indicators are now housed in the new exterior mirrors, while four new exterior paint shades and five newly styled light-alloy wheel variants broaden the scope for individualisation.

Exclusivity and a high level of perceived quality in the interior

The new X3 leads the way in its segment in terms of both interior spaciousness and rear load capacity (550–1,600 litres). The interior is a compelling proposition with its carefully selected, exquisite materials. Understated chrome applications, the centre console with optional automatic climate control system in high-gloss black-panel look, and wood panelling with pearl-effect chrome highlights contribute further to the high-quality surroundings. Adding the final touches to the premium ambience are new cupholders in the centre console with a sliding cover and the standard-fitted leather steering wheel. Customers can also choose from four new upholstery colours and four new interior trim strips.

xLine and M Sport packages offer boundless individualisation

The high-quality material and colour concept shines the spotlight on the premium profile of the new BMW X3. The xLine equipment package, which lends even further emphasis to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the X3, sees BMW expanding the scope for individualisation. The xLine package can be identified from the outside by gleaming metallic inserts in the bumpers, Aluminium satinated side cladding and bars in the air intakes, and simulated underguards at the front and rear. It also allows customers to choose from additional cloth and leather upholstery variants, trim strips and two exclusive 18 and 19-inch light-alloy wheel options.

The superb dynamic qualities of the new BMW X3 can be showcased to even greater effect by specifying the M Sport package, with the M aerodynamic package and BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line trim maximising the car’s presence on the road. In addition, customers can choose from six paint finishes and three exclusive light-alloy wheel options in 18, 19 and even 20-inch format. In the cockpit, a BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite and sports seats in various cloth/leather and leather upholstery variants intensify the sporting theme. Technical highlights include the eight-speed sports automatic gearbox, sports steering and suspension settings tuned to deliver even sharper dynamic performance.

Raising everyday functionality yet another notch

The BMW X3 also builds further on its segment-leading status when it comes to everyday usability and versatility. All BMW X3 models are now fitted as standard with the Radio Professional with Central Information Display and iDrive Controller. Intelligent Emergency Call, meanwhile, takes safety to another new level. When required, this function uses an integrated telephone unit to summon rapid assistance. A range of other innovative options adds further to the functionality of the new X3. The Smart Opener, for instance, makes accessing the load compartment that much easier; a short movement of the foot below the rear bumper causes it to open or close the tailgate automatically. A storage package including a reversible floor section, folding box, partition elements and a range of different luggage nets allows objects of any kind to be stowed away easily, safely and tidily, and the 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat enables maximum flexibility. Elsewhere, the Hi-Fi Sound System Professional from Harman Kardon promises the ultimate in audio pleasure for the new BMW X3, while the optional auxiliary heating guarantees a pleasant onboard climate at all times – even when temperatures get wintry.

Powertrain: Driving pleasure and efficiency, the new four-cylinder diesel engine

With its dynamic and efficient engines, the new BMW X3 raises the bar once more in the mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle segment. Four diesel engines and three petrol units will be available from launch, all of them meeting the EU6 exhaust regulations as standard and guaranteeing the type of driving experience for which BMW is renowned. The engine line-up offers outputs ranging from 110 kW/150 hp to 230 kW/313 hp, the cutting-edge power units using the latest BMW TwinPower Turbo technology to ensure outstanding performance combined with minimised fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Newly developed four-cylinder diesel engines

The new generation of all-aluminium 2.0-litre diesel engines uses common rail direct injection with solenoid valve injectors and works with increased injection pressure of 2,000 bar. This pushes the output of the X3 xDrive20d from 135 kW/184 hp up to 140 kW/190 hp, with the maximum torque available also rising from 380 to 400 Nm (280–295 lb-ft). This increase in performance cuts the car’s 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time by 0.4 seconds to just 8.1 seconds. At the same time, the fuel consumption of the X3 xDrive20d with eight-speed automatic gearbox drops by 7.1 per cent compared to the outgoing model, and CO2 emissions are down to only 141–138 g/km. Fourth-generation reduced-rolling-resistance tyres cut CO2 emissions by a further 7 g/km, making a significant extra contribution to the excellent environmental and economic performance of the new BMW X3. In this configuration, the BMW X3 xDrive20d – in which the new 2.0-litre turbodiesel is celebrating its world premiere – delivers class-leading figures: fuel consumption is just 5.0 litres per 100 kilometres (56.5 mpg imp) with CO2 emissions of 131 g/km. The new 110 kW/150 hp BMW X3 sDrive18d, with its classical rear-wheel drive, a six-speed manual gearbox and reduced-rolling-resistance tyres, goes one better and records the lowest fuel consumption (4.7 litres/100 km [60.1 mpg imp]) and CO2 emissions (124 g/km) of any model in the mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle segment.

The 18d is only available in sDrive form, but all other models come with xDrive as standard. The intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system delivers optimum traction, need-based power distribution, and further improved dynamics and driving safety. In models equipped with xDrive, a new xDrive status display with three-dimensional graphics in the Control Display keeps the driver informed of the car’s body roll and pitch. On vehicles equipped with a navigation system, a compass display is also shown in the instrument cluster

Six-speed manual gearbox or eight-speed automatic

Depending on the engine variant specified, the new BMW X3 can be ordered with a sporty, precise six-speed manual gearbox or a highly effective eight-speed automatic, which also allows the driver to change gear using optional shift paddles on the steering wheel. An eight-speed sports automatic gearbox with shift paddles included as standard is also available as an option.

The groundbreaking BMW EfficientDynamics package of technology is keen to ensure that the driving pleasure available on board the new BMW X3 goes hand-in-hand with low emissions and impressive economy. Engines with maximised fuel economy, intelligent lightweight design and optimised aerodynamics team up with the latest-generation Auto Start Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, Optimum Shift Indicator and on-demand operation of ancillary units in the new BMW X3 to deliver the lowest fuel consumption and emissions figures in the segment.

Coasting function and ECO PRO mode reduce fuel consumption

Other features contributing to the economical running of the new BMW X3 are the ECO PRO mode selectable via the Driving Experience Control switch and the coasting function of the eight-speed automatic gearbox, which disengages the powertrain at speeds of 50–160 km/h (approx. 30–100 mph) when the driver takes his foot off the accelerator. Fourth-generation reduced-rolling-resistance tyres, meanwhile, shave another 7 g/km off CO2 emissions and can be ordered in conjunction with 17-inch Streamline style 306 wheels for all BMW X3 models (except the 35i and 35d).

Safety, comfort and infotainment

The new BMW X3 sees BMW ConnectedDrive providing further evidence of its groundbreaking role in the link-up of the driver, car and outside world. Among the outstanding new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the new BMW X3 is the latest, enhanced-capability generation of the Navigation system Professional, complete with ECO PRO route guidance and an iDrive Controller with integrated touchpad. The touchpad allows drivers or passengers to use their finger to write letters for text inputs – a navigation destination, for example. Another highlight is the full-colour Head-Up Display, which projects all important driving information and the assistance systems displays into the driver’s field of view. Among the other systems available as an option to further enhance safety are the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus, which includes features such as Lane Departure Warning and preventive pedestrian protection, plus Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function. Aiding comfort, meanwhile, is the Parking Assistant, which automatically steers the car into parking spaces parallel to the road. BMW ConnectedDrive Services & Apps also make mobility services and smartphone applications available inside the car via the central Control Display, and innovations such as the Concierge Services and RTTI (Real Time Traffic Information) system can also be accessed.

The standard inclusion of the Intelligent Emergency Call function provides another boost to safety. This system springs into action automatically, as well as when help is summoned manually. As soon as the crash sensors report an airbag deployment, Intelligent Emergency Call uses the integrated SIM card to send the car’s exact location along with all key information to the BMW call centre, enabling rapid and effective assistance at the scene of the accident.

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